Car Rental in Delhi, India – A Complete Guide for Travelers and Locals
Whether you're visiting India’s capital city or a local planning a road trip, car rental in Delhi is an incredibly convenient way to get around. From navigating narrow Old Delhi lanes to zooming across highways to Agra or Jaipur, having your own set of wheels offers unmatched freedom and flexibility.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about car rentals in Delhi, from types of cars to rental companies, prices, and travel tips.

Why Rent a Car in Delhi?
✅ Convenience: No need to depend on cabs or crowded public transport

✅ Flexibility: Plan your itinerary your way – stop where you want, leave when you like

✅ Comfort: Travel in AC comfort, especially in summer or monsoon seasons

✅ Cost-Effective: For groups or long-distance trips, it can be cheaper than multiple taxi rides

Types of Car Rentals Available in Delhi
1. Self-Drive Car Rentals
If you're comfortable driving in Indian traffic, self-drive rentals give you total control.

Popular Providers:

Zoomcar

Revv

Myles

Requirements:

Valid copyright (Indian or International Driving Permit)

Security deposit (usually INR 5,000–10,000)

Minimum age: 18–21 years (varies)

2. Chauffeur-Driven Car Rentals
Most travelers prefer this, especially for sightseeing or business.

Benefits:

No driving stress in traffic

Local driver knows the routes

Ideal for tourists or first-time visitors

Popular Providers:

Savaari

Bharat Taxi

GetMeCab

Local travel agents and hotels

3. Luxury Car Rentals
For weddings, business events, or special occasions.

Available Models:

Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi

Jaguar, Rolls Royce, Range Rover

Limousine services for VIP travel

Pro Tip: Always book well in advance for luxury cars, especially during wedding season.

Popular Car Options and Price Ranges
Car Type    Rental (Per Day)    With Driver (8 hrs/80 km)
Hatchback (Swift)    ₹1,500–₹2,000    ₹1,800–₹2,500
Sedan (Dzire, Etios)    ₹1,800–₹2,500    ₹2,000–₹2,800
SUV (Innova, Ertiga)    ₹2,500–₹3,500    ₹3,000–₹4,000
Luxury Cars    ₹6,000–₹20,000+    ₹7,000–₹25,000+
Tempo Traveller    ₹4,500–₹7,000    ₹5,000–₹8,000

Note: Prices may vary based on fuel inclusion, rental duration, and company.

Top Destinations to Visit by Rental Car from Delhi
Agra (Taj Mahal): 3–4 hours

Jaipur (Pink City): 5–6 hours

Haridwar/Rishikesh (Spiritual trip): 5 hours

Shimla/Manali (Hills): 7–12 hours

Chandigarh (Clean and green city): 4–5 hours

Amritsar (Golden Temple): 8–9 hours

How to Book a Car Rental in Delhi
Online Booking
Most car rentals can be reserved via website or app.

Steps:

Select car type and duration

Choose pickup/drop location

Upload ID proof and license

Make payment or deposit

Get confirmation and driver/car details

Offline Booking
Local travel agencies or hotel travel desks offer rentals with or without drivers. You might get better negotiation here but fewer guarantees.

Documents Required for Car Rental
Aadhar Card or copyright (for ID)

Valid copyright (for self-drive)

Credit/Debit Card for security deposit (usually refundable)

International Driving Permit (if you're a foreigner)

Car Rental Tips in Delhi
✅ Check the car condition before starting the trip (take pictures)

✅ Read terms and conditions for mileage limits, fuel policy, and late return charges

✅ Verify driver credentials (for chauffeur-driven rentals)

✅ Always ask for GST invoice if you're a business traveler

✅ Avoid peak traffic hours (9-11 AM and 5-8 PM)

Best Time to Rent a Car in Delhi
Winter (Oct to March) – Ideal for sightseeing

Summer (Apr to Jun) – Use AC cars, especially for road trips

Monsoon (Jul to Sep) – Drive carefully, roads can be slippery

Benefits of Hiring a Chauffeur-Driven Car in Delhi
Navigates Delhi’s traffic easily

Saves time and energy

Local knowledge helps avoid congested routes

You can relax, take photos, or enjoy sightseeing stress-free

Rental Car Vs. Taxi: Which is Better in Delhi?
Feature    Car Rental    Taxi
Privacy    High    Moderate
Flexibility    Full control    Limited to operator
Cost (long trip)    Cheaper for groups    Costly if multiple rides
Driver available    Optional    Always included
Fuel charges    May be included/excluded    Usually included

Popular Car Rental Companies in Delhi
Zoomcar – Best for self-drive

Savaari Car Rentals – Reliable for outstation trips

Orix India – Corporate and business travel

Avis India – Luxury and premium cars

Eco Rent A Car – Airport transfers, luxury cars

Bharat Taxi – Good for intercity travel

FAQs
1. Is it safe to drive in Delhi for tourists?
Driving in Delhi requires confidence due to traffic and local driving styles. If you're unsure, go for a chauffeur-driven rental.

2. Can foreigners rent a car in Delhi?
Yes, with a valid copyright, visa, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) for self-drive. Chauffeur-driven cars don’t need an IDP.

3. Are fuel charges included in rental price?
It depends. Many companies have both fuel-included and fuel-excluded options. Always confirm at booking.

4. Can I take the rental car outside Delhi?
Yes, most rentals allow intercity travel but check for extra toll/tax or permit charges.

5. Do rental companies provide child seats or GPS?
Yes, most companies provide optional add-ons like GPS, Wi-Fi, and baby seats for a small extra charge.